2 January 2024 Russian strikes on Ukraine

Ukraine's air force has reported a significant night assault involving drones and missiles across six regions of the country. Of the 30 drones and missiles launched, Ukrainian forces managed to shoot down 29, according to Mykola Oleshchuk, Air Force Commander of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

For 16 hours, the eastern Ukrainian city of Kharkiv remained under air alert, the longest duration since the war began. The alert was lifted a few hours after midnight.

Reports from Ukrainian media have confirmed that Russia has initiated significant missile strikes in Ukraine, employing Tu-95 and MiG-31 strategic bombers. The strikes, which included the deployment of "Kinzhal" missiles, targeted the cities of Lviv and Kyiv.

Day 717 of the invasion of Ukraine. Summary of key events in the last 24 hours:

Day 699 of the invasion of Ukraine. Summary of key events in the last 24 hours: